The People of Belize

What Makes a Belizean?

The country of Belize is diverse and so are its people. Belizeans are a genuine example of a mixture of ethnicities. All Belizeans have different genetic origins, with some shared characteristics that result from a blending of physical and cultural elements. Belizeans are open-minded about interracial unions. Our attitude is laid-back, and our distinct cultures have managed to co-exist in relative harmony.

The Maya

No one seriously doubts that the Maya emigrated to the Americas centuries ago from Asia via the Bering Straits. This took place several years before Christ and is evident int their almond eyes and high cheekbones. At least 10% of our population consider themselves ethnic Maya. The Maya are a tranquil, noble people, proud of their rich heritage. There are two subgroups of Maya, the Mopan Maya who live in San Antonio Village, Toledo and the Kekchi who emigrated from Guatemala in the 1880s. They still speak their language and have a strong sense of community as well as a reverence for education.

The Garifuna

The rich culture of the Garifuna people was first developed on the small Caribbean island of St. Vincent descended from African slaves who intermarried with indigenous people known as Arawaks. They were forced out by the British Government and in 1832 came to the coast of Belize in dugout canoes. Their arrival is commemorated every year on November 19th with a festival of food, drumming, dancing and singing. They too have left their indelible mark on Belize with their exotic cuisine of Sere (fish chowder), Hudut (plantain medallions) and their famous Cassava Bread which has been adopted by all Belizeans. They have kept their language and customs intact while making contributions in education, art, and governance.

The Creole

In Belize, the term Creole has been defined as a person of mixed European and African ancestry. This is not to be confused with the Creole of Louisiana. Our Creoles are the descendants of the African slaves who were forcibly brought to British Honduras during the Colonial era and who eventually mixed with the European settlers. Today most Creoles live in Belize City and comprise 2/5ths of the population. Some also live in the other five districts. Most Belizeans from all ethnicities speak the Creole language, a unique local amalgam of English, although standard English is the official language. The Creoles are known for their delicious rice and beans dishes, in all its variations, with chicken, fish, beef, and pork and is enjoyed by everyone in the country. It is a staple for us all.

The Mestizo

The term Mestizo means “mixed” and refers to a Spanish speaking white person in Central America. In some countries, they are referred to as Ladinos, but not in Belize. Mestizos are of Mayan descent mixed with Spanish from Yucatan and Southern Mexico. Although they speak Spanish at home, they also speak and understand Creole and English. They are mostly Catholic and family-oriented and retain their customs and their cuisine: Escabeche, Tamales Relleno and Tacos have also become part of Belizeans’ daily fare.

Other Smaller Groups

East Indian
After British Emancipation in 1838, East Indians or Hindus were brought to Belize by the British as indentured servants. Working as domestics or on sugar plantations. They were supposedly free, but this was in contradiction to the term indentured. They were commonly referred to as “coolies,” meaning paid servants. We no longer use this term. They were tied to a work contract, usually for five years, after which they were free to return to India. Many of these groups stayed and were later joined by other groups in the late 1860s. By the 1930’s they had assimilated and established as thriving merchants and shop keepers. They also still speak their language and practice their customs. They are beautiful people with a colorful culture and a community-minded spirit.
Arab Peoples
After the end of the Great War in 1918, Belize received immigrants from Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria. They worked mostly in the chicle and logging industries and settled mainly in Cayo, and later in Belize City. They are hard workers and business entrepreneurs with a love of family. Also, they are established as successful in many areas, with a strong work ethic. Some still speak their language, and their cuisine has also crossed over to the traditional Belizean palate.
Chinese
About the same time, a century ago, there was an influx of Chinese immigrants to Belize. They mostly engaged in trade and land acquisition and became a part of the fabric of Belize culture all over the country. Some spoke Spanish and later English and their children became Belizeans, studying and working, usually following the trade of their parents, or becoming independent professionals. Later, Belize established diplomatic ties with the Peoples Republic of China (Taiwan) and for nearly 50 years have also taken their place as new Belizeans.
Mennonite
Most of our Mennonites came to Belize via Mexico. They are of German descent, very religious, and believe in the old ways of dress and customs, somewhat like the Amish in North America. They speak a variant of Old German as well as English, Spanish and Creole and live in very close-knit communities. Before their arrival, Belize had no dairy industry. These savvy industrious immigrants have contributed enormously to agriculture, cattle, and poultry rearing and are adept at old fashioned furniture making. Because they are such hard workers, they settle where opportunity can be found. In Orange Walk, Cayo, and Toledo: north, west, and south.

Photo Courtesy: Leonardo Melendez

Written by Nelita Castillo